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Miantsoarivo, nestled within the Antananarivo province of Madagascar, occupies a geographically complex position at approximately -19.1964 latitude and 47.4109 longitude. The city’s location is characterized by a steep, undulating terrain, typical of the Central Highlands of Madagascar. Situated at an elevation of roughly 1,350 meters (4,430 feet) above sea level, Miantsoarivo experiences a microclimate significantly influenced by its altitude and the surrounding landscape. The city is surrounded by a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily small-scale farming plots cultivating rice, maize, and various vegetables, contributing to localized particulate matter. To the east, the landscape rises into forested hills, offering some natural air filtration, while to the west, the urban sprawl of Antananarivo gradually encroaches, introducing a more complex mix of pollutants. The proximity to the Ikopa River, though providing a water source, can also contribute to humidity and fog formation, which can trap pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The urban–rural gradient around Miantsoarivo is relatively sharp; the city transitions quickly into agricultural areas and then into more rugged, forested terrain. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Miantsoarivo, but the broader Antananarivo region hosts some light manufacturing and processing facilities, whose emissions can be transported by prevailing winds. The valley setting and the surrounding hills create a natural basin, which can exacerbate air pollution episodes by limiting dispersion, particularly during periods of low wind speed.

Miantsoarivo’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by Madagascar’s tropical climate, exhibiting a clear wet and dry season influence. The dry season, typically spanning from May to October, often sees a noticeable increase in particulate matter concentrations. This is largely due to increased agricultural burning practices as farmers prepare fields for planting, releasing smoke and ash into the atmosphere. Reduced rainfall during this period also limits the natural cleansing effect of precipitation. Furthermore, the drier air tends to be more stable, promoting temperature inversions, particularly in the mornings, where cooler air becomes trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, preventing pollutants from dispersing vertically. The wet season, from November to April, brings more frequent rainfall, which helps to wash pollutants from the air, leading to improved air quality. However, periods of heavy fog, common during the wet season, can also trap pollutants close to the ground, creating localized air quality concerns. Wind patterns are generally variable, but prevailing winds often originate from the east, potentially carrying pollutants from agricultural areas or the broader Antananarivo region. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, particularly during the afternoons when rainfall has cleared the air. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, especially during periods of agricultural burning or fog. Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during the early morning hours, when temperature inversions are most likely, is also advisable.